Starting laser hair removal in winter: the best time of year?

Why do sun and tanning matter for laser hair removal?

Our 755 nm Alexandrite laser targets the pigment in the hair. It works best when dark hair stands out clearly against lighter skin [1]. A tan adds pigment to the skin, which narrows that contrast and means the skin absorbs more of the light energy. That is why skin colour and a current tan affect the risk of skin reactions.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals, part of the NHS, say they do not treat tanned skin, whether from the sun, sunbeds or fake tan [2]. The American Academy of Dermatology advises keeping direct sunlight off treated skin and avoiding sunbeds [3], and Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding the sun before and after treatment [1].

Why is winter a practical time to start?

Autumn and winter make several things easier:

• Less sun: the days are short and most body areas are not tanned.
• Covered skin: legs, arms, back and stomach stay under clothing, so they are easy to protect between appointments.
• More time: a course takes months, and starting early puts your first appointments in the darker part of the year.

The calendar alone does not make treatment suitable: a skiing trip or a sunny week away can still tan your skin. What counts is your skin on the day of treatment.

How long does a course take, and will I be done by summer?

Plan for a course over several months. Mayo Clinic describes 4–8 treatments as a common guide [1], and the American Academy of Dermatology says appointments are usually 4–6 weeks apart [3]. Some body areas and regrowth patterns need longer gaps.

This is arithmetic, not a promise. How many appointments your area needs, and when a course is complete, depends on the body area, your hair, hormones and progress. You may need more appointments or later maintenance.

Start in late autumn or winter and you will have several appointments behind you by summer. We cannot promise the course will be finished by then, but you can carry on through the brighter months.

Can I start or continue in spring and summer?

Yes, with some care. The month alone does not decide whether treatment is suitable. Three things matter:

• No tan on the area: no sun, sunbeds or fake tan on it in the weeks before your appointment.
• Sun protection: avoid direct sun and use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin, between appointments too.
• Holiday planning: arrange sunny trips so they do not fall just before or just after an appointment.

This is easier for areas that rarely see direct sun, such as the underarms, bikini or intimate area. Face, neck, nape, arms and legs get plenty of summer sun, so autumn or winter suits them especially well. At the beach or the lido, though, every area should be untanned when you come in.

What should I do if I have a fresh tan?

1. 1

   Tell us beforehand

   Let us know about a recent tan, sunburn or fake tan before your appointment, by phone or WhatsApp on +49 173 5696339.

2. 2

   Wait it out

   Usually that means waiting: we postpone the appointment until your skin is untanned again and agree the exact timing with you.

3. 3

   Protect the area meanwhile

   Keep sun, sunbeds and fake tan off the area until then. Do not wax, pluck or epilate.

How do I plan appointments around holidays?

• Mention planned trips at your first visit, skiing holidays included, so we can set the intervals around them.
• Tell us about new medication, as some medicines make skin more sensitive to light. Do not stop prescribed medication on your own; medical questions belong with your doctor.

As an example of cost: underarms are €45 per visit or €189 as a 6-visit course, 30% less than six single visits. The course is valid for 18 months, which leaves room to plan appointments around holidays. You choose it in the studio and receive the written terms before you buy.

How do I get started?

The easiest way is the free trial area on your first laser visit to SALT BEAUTY in Berlin-Friedenau: 30 minutes, €0, once per person, with a consultation and a trial treatment of one small area such as the underarms, upper lip, bikini or nape. The trial treatment only takes place if your skin and hair are suitable. Bring your holiday plans, and Salta can work out a schedule with you. If you would rather just talk first, book the free laser consultation, also 30 minutes and bookable online without payment.